17265, Upperstrasburg, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17265, Upperstrasburg, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.15 percent of the residents in 17265 has some form of health insurance. 47.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.66 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 17265 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 102 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17265. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 111 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,628 health care providers accessible to residents in 17265, Upperstrasburg, Pennsylvania.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Upperstrasburg, PA (ZIP Code 17265)

Analyzing prostate cancer care within the Upperstrasburg, PA (ZIP Code 17265) area requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis assesses the landscape of primary care providers (PCPs), their capacity to address prostate health, and the supporting resources available to patients. The aim is to provide a comprehensive "Prostate Cancer Score" profile, considering factors beyond simple provider numbers.

The foundation of any prostate cancer care plan rests on the availability and quality of primary care. In Upperstrasburg, the accessibility of PCPs is a critical determinant of early detection and ongoing management. A robust PCP network facilitates routine screenings, provides initial diagnoses, and coordinates referrals to specialists when necessary. This analysis considers both the raw number of PCPs and their patient load, which directly impacts the time and attention each patient receives.

Physician-to-patient ratios are essential. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can strain resources, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and less individualized care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater availability and the potential for more thorough patient interactions. Data on the precise physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP Code 17265 is essential to evaluate the accessibility of primary care. Publicly available sources, such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), and local health department data are crucial for obtaining this information.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves assessing the practices' adherence to national guidelines for prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Do the PCPs regularly recommend prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests for men over a certain age? Are they knowledgeable about the latest advancements in prostate cancer treatment, including minimally invasive surgical techniques, radiation therapy options, and targeted therapies? The answers to these questions directly impact the "Prostate Cancer Score."

Identifying standout practices within Upperstrasburg is also key. This involves looking for practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilize technology effectively, and foster strong relationships with specialists. Factors to consider include patient reviews, accreditations from recognized medical organizations, and the availability of ancillary services, such as on-site labs and imaging facilities. Practices that prioritize patient education and provide comprehensive support services, including access to mental health resources, will receive higher scores.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical component of the "Prostate Cancer Score." The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online educational resources significantly enhances access to care, particularly for patients who live in rural areas or have mobility limitations. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient convenience, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate more frequent communication between patients and providers.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in prostate cancer care, but their importance cannot be overstated. A prostate cancer diagnosis can have a significant emotional impact on patients, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health support, either within the primary care practice or through referrals to external providers, is a crucial factor in determining the overall quality of care. Practices that proactively address the mental health needs of their patients will be highly regarded.

The availability of specialized care within a reasonable distance is also important. While PCPs provide the foundation of care, patients often require referrals to urologists, oncologists, and other specialists for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of prostate cancer. The proximity of these specialists, along with the ease of referral processes, directly impacts the patient experience. Analyzing the referral networks of PCPs in Upperstrasburg is crucial.

Moreover, the "Prostate Cancer Score" must consider the availability of support groups and patient education programs. These resources empower patients with knowledge, provide emotional support, and facilitate connections with others who are facing similar challenges. Practices that actively promote and support these resources will receive higher marks.

In conclusion, evaluating the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Upperstrasburg, PA (ZIP Code 17265) is a complex undertaking. It demands a comprehensive assessment of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care provided, the adoption of technology, the availability of mental health resources, and the proximity of specialized care. The analysis must also consider the presence of patient support groups and educational programs. This detailed evaluation allows for a more nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Upperstrasburg, including the location of primary care practices, specialist availability, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome's mapping tools allow for the visualization and analysis of healthcare data, providing valuable insights for both patients and healthcare professionals.